Veröffentlicht von The Wildpark Forstenried is a popular nature and wildlife park located just southwest of Munich. Unlike large city zoos, this park focuses on animals native to Central Europe and offers a relaxed, family-friendly day out in natural woodlands and meadows. With easy public transport access from the city and free entry, it’s an excellent choice for a half-day or full-day visit if you want to escape the urban hustle and experience wildlife up close.
If you’re planning sightseeing in Munich but also want a quiet nature day, Wildpark Forstenried is one of the best options within easy reach of the city. It pairs particularly well with other green attractions like the English Garden or a visit to the Munich Botanical Garden.
Relaxing Nature & Wildlife Tours
Explore Munich’s green surroundings with outdoor and wildlife-focused tours. Perfect if you enjoy nature and local ecosystems.
Where Is Wildpark Forstenried?
Wildpark Forstenried is located in the Forstenried district, southwest of central Munich. The park covers around 33 hectares of woodland and meadows and is integrated into a larger network of green spaces, including forest trails and picnic areas. It feels more like a nature reserve than a traditional zoo, with many animals living in spacious, landscape-style enclosures.
The park is easily reachable by public transport or bike from Munich, making it a great option for families, nature lovers and anyone who wants a break from urban sightseeing.
History and Purpose of the Park
The park was established more than a century ago as a refuge for native wildlife and as an educational space for local residents. Today it continues this mission by:
- Conserving native species
- Educating visitors about local ecosystems
- Providing natural recreation space
Wildpark Forstenried is free to enter, which makes it a very affordable and accessible nature activity near Munich.
Main Animal Highlights
The park’s animal collections focus on species native to Central Europe. They are generally not exotic but are fascinating because they live in relatively naturalistic surroundings rather than small cages.
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Red Deer & Fallow Deer
These large deer species are often the first animals visitors see. During feeding times or quieter afternoons, they can be active and visible close to the paths.
Wild Boar
Wild boar are common throughout Central Europe, but seeing them in relatively open, natural areas is special. The park’s enclosures allow you to observe them without barriers getting in the way of photos.
Wild boars are perhaps the best known animals in the Forstenried Game Park
Foxes and Small Mammals
Foxes, badgers and other small mammals live in semi-natural enclosures that mimic their wild habitat. Many visitors are surprised by how natural and engaging these areas feel.
Birds and Raptors
The park also includes birds of prey and local bird species. Observation areas and informational signs help visitors learn about bird behavior and habitats.
Walking Trails and Nature Observation
Wildpark Forstenried isn’t just about animal enclosures — it’s also a pleasant nature walk. The park’s paths meander through mixed woodlands and open meadow areas, providing good opportunities for:
- Wildlife observation
- Photography
- Picnicking
- Easy family hikes
Benches and rest areas are scattered throughout the park, making it easy to linger and enjoy the surroundings.
How Long Should You Plan?
- 1–1.5 hours: Quick nature walk + main animals
- 2–3 hours: Relaxed visit with breaks and observation stops
- Half day: Add a picnic and longer nature exploration
The amount of time depends on your pace and interests. Families often spend several hours here, especially on sunny weekends.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring: Active wildlife and fresh greenery
- Summer: Full nature experience, shade and wildlife movement
- Autumn: Colorful foliage and calmer crowds
- Winter: Quieter park atmosphere (some animals may be less active)
Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times for wildlife observation.
Practical Visitor Information
- Entry: Free
- Opening hours: Generally daylight hours (varies by season)
- Food & drinks: Bring your own picnic items (no large cafés inside)
- Strollers/Accessibility: Mostly easy paths, some uneven ground
Always check the official opening hours before you go, as they change throughout the year.
How to Get There
Wildpark Forstenried is reachable by public transport and bike from central Munich. The most common route is:
- S-Bahn + short walk: S-Bahn to Forstenried station, then walk or bike
- Bus connection: Local buses connect from nearby stops
More transport information:
Combine Wildpark Forstenried with Nearby Attractions
Outdoor Nature Day
Pair your Wildpark visit with the English Garden for a full nature experience near Munich — one focused on local wildlife and one a sprawling urban park.
Zoo + Wildpark
If you enjoy animals, combine this with a visit to the Munich Zoo (Tierpark Hellabrunn) on a different day. The experiences are complementary: zoo for global species and Wildpark for local nature.
Botanical Garden + Wildpark
For a relaxed “green day,” begin at the Munich Botanical Garden in the morning and finish with Wildpark Forstenried in the afternoon.
Stay Near Munich’s Green Spaces
If you’re planning multiple outdoor activities, consider accommodation with good transport and bike access.
See also: Good hotels in Munich
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free entry
- Close to Munich
- Natural wildlife and walking paths
- Great for families and nature lovers
Cons
- Limited food options inside
- Some paths uneven or muddy after rain
- Not a traditional zoo (no exotic animals)
Is Wildpark Forstenried Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy natural settings, wildlife observation and a relaxed outdoor experience. It’s ideal for families, kids, nature photographers and anyone who wants to escape the city for a few hours without traveling far.
More Munich Nature & Outdoor Guides